Indinavir

Generic Name : Indinavir

TradeName : INDIVAN-400, INDIVIR

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : It is an inhibitor of the enzyme human immunodefeciency virus protease which is required for the proteolytic cleavage of the viral polyprotein precursors into the individaul functional proteins found in infectious HIV

When it is to be taken : Treatment of HIV infection in combination with antiretroviral agents

How it should be taken : Adults: 800 mg orally every 8 hours with water 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.Patient should drink atleast 1.5 litres of liquids in 24 hours.

Special Instruction :
Contraindications:Hypersensitivity. Avoid concurrent use with terfenadine, cisapride, astemi-zole, triazolam, midazolam, or ergot derivatives.

Side Effects :
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, dry mouth, taste disturbances. Headache, dizziness, insomnia, myalgia, asthenia, paraesthesia, rash, pruitus, dry skin, hyperpigmentation, nephrolithiasis, dysuria, haematuria, crystalluria, proteinuria, elevated liver enzymes and bilirubin, hepatitis, neutropenia, haemolytic anaemia, hyperglycaemia.

Other Precautions :
Hepatic impairment, ensure adequate hydration to ensure adequate hydration to reduce risk of nephrolithiasis, haemophilia ( possible increased bleeding). Monitor blood glucose levels.Pregnancy: Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Contraindicated. Elderly: May be used.

Storage Conditions :
Keep out of the reach of children. Store away from heat and direct light. Indinavir capsules are very sensitive to moisture. Keep them in their original container and leave the drying packet in the container. Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.